In the realm of aesthetic medicine, the use of botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) has traditionally been associated with the treatment of dynamic facial lines – in other words, direct injection into the muscles themselves to make them weaker, less active, and thus form fewer wrinkles.

However, a novel approach known as Microtoxin—involving the intradermal injection of dilute BoNT-A—has emerged as a game-changer for improving overall skin quality. 

This technique, which delivers microdroplets of BoNT-A into the dermis, offers a multitude of aesthetic benefits, including enhanced skin texture, reduced pore size, and improved skin hydration. 

What is Microtoxin?

Microtoxin refers to the intradermal injection of diluted BoNT-A in microdroplets. Unlike traditional BoNT-A treatments that target muscle activity to reduce wrinkles, Microtoxin focuses on the skin itself. 

This technique was pioneered by Dr. Woffles Wu, who observed that injecting smaller, more superficial droplets of BoNT-A could improve skin sheen, reduce pore size, and decrease sebum production without compromising muscle function[1][2].

Mechanism of Action

BoNT-A works by inhibiting the release of acetylcholine (ACh) at the neuromuscular junction, leading to temporary muscle denervation. However, ACh also plays a role in glandular tissues, where it stimulates sweat and sebaceous glands. 

By targeting these pathways, Microtoxin can reduce sebum production, control sweating, and improve skin texture and hydration[2][3].

Clinical Applications and Benefits

Microtoxin has been shown to offer a wide range of aesthetic benefits:

• Reduction in Pore Size and Sebum Production: Intradermal BoNT-A can significantly reduce pore size and control sebum production, making it an effective treatment for patients with oily skin and enlarged pores[2].
• Improvement in Skin Texture and Fine Lines: The technique enhances skin texture, reduces fine lines, and provides a smoother, more youthful appearance[1][3].
• Enhanced Skin Hydration: Combining BoNT-A with stabilized hyaluronic acid (S-HA) in a technique known as Microhyaluronicacid can dramatically improve skin hydration and texture. This combination has been shown to increase stratum corneum hydration (SCH) and reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL), leading to healthier, more hydrated skin[1].
• Treatment of Scars and Keloids: Microtoxin can be used to manage scars and keloids effectively. It helps in the prevention and treatment of hypertrophic scars by modulating fibroblast activity and reducing inflammation[2][3].
• Jawline and Neck Definition: Intradermal BoNT-A can improve jawline and neck definition by relaxing depressor muscles and addressing transverse neck lines and platysmal banding[2].

Injection Technique

The success of Microtoxin lies in its precise injection technique. I will have to give you a lot of injections, very superficially, in your face to give you the best overall results. 

For example, treating the entire face may require up to 500 microdroplet injections, while the neck may need up to 200 injections[2][3].  The number of injections depends on your goals, along with the surface area of your face and neck.  

Safety and Efficacy

Microtoxin is considered a safe and minimally invasive procedure with a favorable safety profile. Minor injection-related sequelae are the most common side effects, and serious adverse events are rare. The procedure is well-tolerated by patients, with high satisfaction rates reported[2][3].

Conclusion

Microtoxin represents a significant advancement in aesthetic medicine, offering a versatile and effective treatment for various skin concerns. By enhancing skin texture, reducing pore size, and improving hydration, Microtoxin provides a comprehensive approach to achieving beautiful, youthful skin. As patient interest in minimally invasive procedures continues to grow, Microtoxin is poised to become a staple in aesthetic practices worldwide.

Interested in having this procedure?  Please contact my office to set up your consultation and appointment!